15 best things to do in Honolulu, Hawaii

28.08.2024 - 02:14 / lonelyplanet.com / Pearl Harbor

Aug 27, 2024 • 6 min read

What sets O'ahu apart from other Hawaiian islands? Honolulu, of course. It’s the only Hawaiian island with a real city, complete with high-rises, loads of fine-dining options in downtown Honolulu and enough shopping to keep you busy for an entire vacation. In other words, you will never run out of things to do. Give yourself an entire week so you have enough time without feeling rushed. The world-famous beaches, of course, are a no-brainer. But there are  many other ways to enjoy Oahu's capital city when you need a break from beach lounging. So hop in your rental car—you’ll need one to get around— and start exploring some of Honolulu’s top attractions including Pearl Harbor, hiking on Diamond Head and sunbathing on Waikiki Beach.

Get up early and hike Diamond Head before it gets too crowded or hot. The Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail is one of the most popular attractions in Honolulu because it’s surprisingly walkable even in athletic shoes. It is steep in parts, but the 360-degree views of Honolulu, Waikiki and Hawaii Kai will make it all worth it. Just be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, charged phone and water since there’s no shade.

If you visit in the fall, foodies will love attending the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival. Get to know up and coming Honolulu-area chefs, Michelin-starred legends and well-known bartenders from Oahu and beyond at several different events, all while devouring fresh, homegrown foods. This year’s theme, “Taste Our Love for the Land,” encourages residents and visitors to care for the island and its natural resources. Take part in volunteer opportunities led by local chefs through the Malama ‘Aina Program for a deep dive into island culture and appreciation. Note: This year’s events will be held outdoors in small groups.

Keep Oahu beautiful by volunteering with Malama Hawaii, a program that encourages travelers to learn about island culture and give back while doing something outside of the touristy norm. Many hotels are part of the statewide effort, including the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Honolulu. Guests can learn about growing taro, one of the most important cultural foods, or help repair woven thatch homes in exchange for a discount. Beyond Honolulu, other Malama Hawaii activities include a helicopter tour with Paradise Helicopters, complete with a private landing and the chance to plant a native tree while learning how to heal the land. Guests at Outrigger Hotels & Resorts can take part in a 2-hour eco-adventure at Kualoa Ranch Private Nature Reserve, 4000 acres of land you might recognize from Jurassic Park, Jumanji and Godzilla. In a small group, you’ll hear about the importance of upland ahupuaa streams, the dangers of micro-plastics